Introduction

This just popped into my brain tonight when trying to think of a fun but mostly healthy snack to bring to my new neighbor in the process of moving in. Now I'm not saying this is a low fat snack-- this is definitely a TREAT, but if like me, you often have days when you're short on fats and carbs, this is a good, filling snack that is almost a dessert. It's very important to have a quality, heavy popcorn pan and to hold it just above the very high flame, shaking vigorously the whole time to get this to carmelize but not burn.
This just popped into my brain tonight when trying to think of a fun but mostly healthy snack to bring to my new neighbor in the process of moving in. Now I'm not saying this is a low fat snack-- this is definitely a TREAT, but if like me, you often have days when you're short on fats and carbs, this is a good, filling snack that is almost a dessert. It's very important to have a quality, heavy popcorn pan and to hold it just above the very high flame, shaking vigorously the whole time to get this to carmelize but not burn.

Ingredients

Directions

This is one serving in my book, though if you're not that hungry, it would serve two.

1. Heat the oil and butter in the pan, with one kernel in it. When it pops, it is hot enough to add the rest.

2. Now for this you have to be quick-- have a wooden spoon and a tight fitting lid with a steam vent at hand-- add the popcorn, quickly toss the sugar, the salt, the cinnamon and the vanilla into the pan-- the vanilla should steam a bit, let that escape while you vigorously stir the mixture with the wooden spoon.

3. As soon as it begins to pop, cover with the lid, lift to just an inch above the flame and shake the pan vigorously, sometimes tossing it a bit (hold onto lid with hand mitts if necessary) and let cook until it gets to be less than a pop or two a second.

4. Lift the lid a little bit, to allow the steam to escape (and thus you'll have crispier popcorn). Be careful, it will continue to pop for a minute or so after you've turned off the heat. At this point, taste it and if you'd like it more seasoned, spray with a no-calorie butter spray and sprinkle more cinnamon, salt or sugar on to suit your taste. Eat hot and enjoy! :)